Police: Homeowner Shoots Intruder In Attempted Robbery

WARREN (WWJ) – Two people are hospitalized following an exchange of gunfire in a Warren home.

A photo of a note taken into evidence at the scene. (credit: Warren Police)

Police said the shooting took place following an attempted robbery Tuesday afternoon on Norma Street, in the area of I-696 and Hoover Road.

The victim, a man in his 60s, and his brother sell gold and jewelry out of the home, according to police.

Warren Police Commissioner Jere Green said a prospective customer came knocking, but, once inside, pulled out a handgun.

A note taken into evidence by police at the scene reads: “Do not make a sound or I will shoot you. Want only the cash & jewelry and I’ll be gone! Give me the note back.”

Green said the victim did turn over some gold and some money, but the intruder demanded more.

“He’s at gunpoint — this guy’s in fear for his life,” Green said of the homeowner.

“He says, ‘Come upstairs … there’s more stuff under the bed.’ The homeowner goes under the bed, retrieves his handgun, turns around and fires three times at the bad guy, striking him twice in the chest and once under the arm,” said Green.

That’s when, said Green, the homeowner was severely pistol-whipped — but, amazingly, never shot by the intruder.

Police said the suspect then ran out of the house to a waiting car. He was driven to St. John’s Macomb Hospital, where he is now in protective custody.